A former anesthesiology resident at Seattle Children's Hospital, Harborview, and the University of Washington Medical Centers has been sentenced for stealing and misusing powerful narcotic pain medications while treating patients. Andrew Voegel-Podadera, 36, of Seattle, admitted to diverting fentanyl, hydromorphone, and other controlled substances over a year while working as a resident anesthesiologist. This incident highlights the dangers posed when medical professionals abuse their positions of trust, as Voegel-Podadera was under the influence while caring for patients, including a tiny 11-day-old infant. The case serves as a stark reminder that nobody is above the law, and healthcare professionals will be held accountable for their actions. Voegel-Podadera pleaded guilty to obtaining controlled substances by fraud and was arrested in June 2025. He faced severe consequences, including being fired from his residency program, losing his medical license for at least five years, and surrendering his federal registration to prescribe medications. Despite the harsh penalties, Voegel-Podadera expressed regret for not seeking help sooner for his addiction and now speaks to medical residents about the dangers of substance abuse.
